Power module

ABSTRACT

A power module located on a substrate. In one embodiment, the power module includes power conversion circuitry with a magnetic device and at least one switch. The magnetic device includes a magnetic core with a shielding structure located about the magnetic core configured to create a chamber thereabout. The power module also includes an encapsulant about the power conversion circuitry. The shielding structure is configured to limit the encapsulant entering the chamber thereby allowing the encapsulant to surround a portion of the magnetic core within the chamber.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention is directed, in general, to electronics packagingand, more specifically, to a power module with power conversioncircuitry including a magnetic device having a magnetic core with ashielding structure thereabout.

BACKGROUND

A magnetic device uses magnetic material arranged to shape and directmagnetic flux in a predetermined manner to achieve a desired electricalperformance. The magnetic flux provides a medium for storing,transferring or releasing electromagnetic energy. The magnetic devicestypically include a core having a predetermined volume and composed of amagnetic material (e.g., ferrite) having a magnetic permeability greaterthan that of a surrounding medium (e.g., air). A conductive winding (ora plurality of conductive windings) of a desired number of turns andcarrying an electrical current surround, excite and are excited by themagnetic core (or legs thereof). Inasmuch as the magnetic core usuallyhas a relatively high permeability, magnetic flux produced by theconductive windings is generally confined almost entirely to themagnetic core. The magnetic flux follows the path that the magnetic coredefines; magnetic flux density is essentially consistent over a uniformcross sectional area of the magnetic core, particularly for magneticcores having a small cross sectional area.

The magnetic devices are often used to suppress electromagneticinterference. When used in the suppression role, the efficiency withwhich a magnetic device stores and releases electrical power is notusually a concern. However, magnetic devices are also frequentlyemployed to transmit, convert or condition electrical power (so called“power magnetic devices”). Under such conditions (often in anenvironment of a power converter to power a microprocessor or the like),a performance and efficiency of the magnetic device becomes a majorconcern.

As those of ordinary skill in the art understand, it is highly desirableto provide a protective, heat dissipating package for electroniccircuitry such as an integrated circuit embodying the power converter topower the microprocessor. Often, the electronic circuitry can beencapsulated or “molded,” wherein an encapsulant is formed about theelectronic circuitry to yield a unitary, board mountable package. Onewell known configuration for a board mountable package is a so calleddual in-line package, wherein electrical leads protrude from opposingsidewalls of the package. The leads are advantageously so arranged toallow the package to be mounted to a circuit board by variousconventional soldering processes. The dual in-line packages are widelyused for packaging integrated circuits, most often in computer-relatedenvironments.

It has been long felt that power converters would greatly benefit fromsuch encapsulation. However, in the pursuit of producing encapsulated,power converter packages (also referred to as “power modules”), it wasdiscovered that the normally effective operation of encapsulating thepower conversion circuitry with a conventional thermosetting epoxymolding compound through a conventional transfer molding process candegrade the magnetic performance and efficiency of the magnetic devices.As a result, an overall efficiency of the power converter suffered wellbelow an acceptable level.

More specifically, an underlying effect that occurs when magneticdevices are encapsulated (causing the magnetic performance of thedevices to degrade) is magnetostriction. Magnetostriction (and a relatedeffect of strain pinning of the domain walls of the magnetic cores)occurs as a result of molding pressures and post-molding stresses on themagnetic cores within the power conversion circuitry. Magnetostrictionin the magnetic material causes degradation of magnetic properties whenplaced under tensile or compressive stress. The magnetostriction andstrain pinning causes the permeability of the magnetic core to decreaseand coercivity thereof to increase. As a result, the electrical designof the power conversion circuitry suffers from both reduced inductancevalues and reduced quality factors (e.g., higher magnetic core losses).

In the past, work around solutions emerged to address this impasse.First, most designs for power converters simply avoided the problem byremaining unencapsulated. Unfortunately, the power converters wereunable to take advantage of the physical protection and additional heatdissipating capacity that encapsulation provides. The unencapsulatedpower converters were also difficult to mount on a circuit board due toa lack of suitable soldering processes and handling surfaces. The powerconversion circuitry of the unencapsulated power converters were alsosubject to detrimental exposure to washing processes during themanufacture thereof and to potentially damaging conditions ininhospitable environments.

Another solution revolved around employing compliant material disposedabout at least a portion of the magnetic core of the magnetic device asdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,787,569, entitled “Encapsulated Package forPower Magnetic Devices and Method of Manufacture Therefor,” to Lotfi, etal. (“Lotfi”), issued on Aug. 4, 1998, which is incorporated herein byreference. Lotfi discloses a package for a power magnetic device with amagnetic core subject to magnetostriction when placed under stress. Thepackage includes a compliant material disposed about the magnetic coreand an encapsulant surrounding the compliant material and the magneticcore. The compliant material provides a medium for absorbing stressbetween the encapsulant and the magnetic core. The compliant materialreduces the magnetostriction upon the magnetic core caused by the stressfrom the encapsulant. The package also includes a vent that allows for adisplacement of the compliant material thereby providing further stressrelief for the power magnetic device. While Lotfi provides a viablealternative to dealing with the stress upon a magnetic core from theencapsulant, it may be cumbersome to deposit the compliant materialabout the magnetic core in some applications.

Yet another solution was disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,578,261 entitled“Method of Encapsulating Large Substrate Devices Using ReservoirCavities for Balanced Mold Filling,” to Manzione, et al. (“Manzione”),issued Nov. 26, 1996, which is incorporated herein by reference.Manzione uses reservoir cavities to balance the flow in a mold cavitybetween the. flow fronts above and below a large area substrate. Thereservoir cavities are external to the molded plastic package for anelectronic device substrate to direct a flow of the molding compoundaway therefrom. While Manzione provides an alternative to direct excessmolding compound away from the electronic device substrate, it may notviable to employ such a solution in some applications.

Accordingly, what is first needed in the art is an understanding of theunderlying effect that occurs when magnetic devices are encapsulated,causing the magnetic performance of the magnetic devices to degrade.Further, what is needed (once the effect is understood) is anencapsulated package for magnetic devices and a power module, and anassociated highly economical and feasible method of manufacture for suchencapsulated packages that does not substantially hinder the magneticperformance thereof.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

These and other problems are generally solved or circumvented, andtechnical advantages are generally achieved, by advantageous embodimentsof the present invention which includes a power module located on asubstrate. In one embodiment, the power module includes power conversioncircuitry with a magnetic device and at least one switch. The magneticdevice includes a magnetic core with a shielding structure located aboutthe magnetic core configured to create a chamber thereabout. The powermodule also includes an encapsulant about the power conversioncircuitry. The shielding structure is configured to limit theencapsulant entering the chamber thereby allowing the encapsulant tosurround a portion of the magnetic core within the chamber.

In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a power modulelocated on a substrate. In one embodiment, the power module includespower conversion circuitry with a magnetic device and at least oneswitch. The magnetic device includes a magnetic core and a shieldingstructure with a baffle located about the magnetic core configured tocreate a chamber thereabout. The power module also includes anencapsulant about the power conversion circuitry. The shieldingstructure is configured to limit the encapsulant entering the chamberand the baffle is configured to direct the encapsulant away from themagnetic core thereby allowing the encapsulant to surround a portion ofthe magnetic core within the chamber.

The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and technicaladvantages of the present invention in order that the detaileddescription of the invention that follows may be better understood.Additional features and advantages of the invention will be describedhereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the invention. Itshould be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conceptionand specific embodiment disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis formodifying or designing other structures or processes for carrying outthe same purposes of the present invention. It should also be realizedby those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do notdepart from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in theappended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of the present invention, reference isnow made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a graphical representation of a complex permeabilityof a magnetic device under compressive stress;

FIG. 2 illustrates a dynamic hysteresis loop of the magnetic device ofFIG. 1 under substantially stress free conditions;

FIG. 3 illustrates a dynamic hysteresis loop of the magnetic device ofFIG. 1 molded in an encapsulant such as a thermosetting epoxy moldingcompound and placed under compressive stress;

FIG. 4 illustrates a dynamic hysteresis loop of the magnetic device ofFIG. 1 compensating for the losses associated with the conditionsdemonstrated with respect to FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment of anencapsulatable package for a magnetic device constructed according tothe principles of the present invention;

FIG. 6 illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment of anencapsulated package for a magnetic device constructed according to theprinciples of the present invention;

FIG. 7 illustrates a cross sectional view of another embodiment of anencapsulated package for a magnetic device constructed according to theprinciples of the present invention;

FIG. 8 illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment of a powermodule constructed according to the principles of the present invention;and

FIG. 9 illustrates a diagram of an embodiment of a power converterincluding power conversion circuitry constructed according to theprinciples of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

The making and using of the presently preferred embodiments arediscussed in detail below. It should be appreciated, however, that thepresent invention provides many applicable inventive concepts that canbe embodied in a wide variety of specific contexts. The specificembodiments discussed are merely illustrative of specific ways to makeand use the invention, and do not limit the scope of the invention.

The present invention will be described with respect to preferredembodiments in a specific context, namely, an encapsulatable package fora magnetic device, a power module and a method of manufacture thereof.While the principles of the present invention will be described in theenvironment of a power converter, any application that may benefit froman encapsulatable package for a magnetic device is well within the broadscope of the present invention.

As will become more apparent, the encapsulatable package for themagnetic device includes a magnetic core and at least one conductivewinding. The magnetic core has magnetic properties that can becompromised by mechanical stress produced by an encapsulant in contactwith a sufficient surface area of the magnetic core. The magnetic coreis protected from wide area contact with the encapsulant by a shieldingstructure that creates a chamber about at least a portion of themagnetic core. The shielding structure may be open at one end thereoffor positioning over the magnetic core. The shielding structure makes anincomplete, imperfect or partial seal about the magnetic core againstintrusion of the encapsulant during an application thereof. Duringencapsulation, while a limited amount or a portion of the encapsulantpenetrates the seal, the encapsulant does not make contact with asufficient surface area of the magnetic core to substantially compromisethe magnetic performance thereof.

Referring initially to FIG. 1, illustrated is a graphical representation100 of a complex permeability of a magnetic device under compressivestress. In high frequency switch mode power modules, manganese zincferrites are often used as the magnetic core material in magneticdevices such as energy storage inductors and transformers. In these andother applications, the magnetic cores cannot be directly encapsulatedwith a rigid material since the resulting stress causes a loss ofpermeability, and resulting magnetic core losses in both manganese zincand nickel zinc ferrites. Again, the compressive stress on the magneticmaterial causes a phenomenon called magnetostriction, thereby causing anoverall degradation of the magnetic properties of the magnetic device.For instance, the saturation magnetostriction coefficient λ_(s) for mostmanganese zinc ferrites is about 1×10⁻⁶ to 5×10⁻⁶ and for most nickelzinc ferrites (due to the presence of the nickel) is about 15×10⁻⁶ to20×10⁻⁶. The addition of small amounts of cobalt can reduce thesaturation magnetostriction coefficient λ_(s).

As an example, to measure the level of magnetostriction in the manganesezinc ferrite, a toroidal shaped magnetic core is subject to externallateral and normal compressive forces. While toroidal ferrite cores areused in the illustrated embodiment for material measurements andcharacterization because of the symmetry, flux uniformity and consistentcross sectional areas associated therewith, magnetostrictive effects areequally applicable to other types of magnetic materials and magneticcore configurations. The complex permeability provides a criterion forcharacterizing a magnetic material because it is directly related to anelectrical impedance of a conductive winding associated with themagnetic core.

The complex permeability can be derived from a real permeability(represented by line 110) and an imaginary permeability (represented byline 120), of an impedance associated with the magnetic core. The realpermeability 110 corresponds to an inductance resulting from themagnetization available in the magnetic core. The imaginary permeability120 measures the dissipation within the magnetic core material. Thetoroidal ferrite core is subject to variable pressure to fullycharacterize the stress dependence thereof. The variable pressure on thetoroidal ferrite core results in changes in the complex permeabilityunder dynamic conditions (e.g., 500 kilohertz). A drop in realpermeability 110 is accompanied by an increase in the imaginarypermeability 120, signaling a loss of inductance and an increase inmagnetic core dissipation. Even under the smallest stress (e.g., lessthan 500 pounds per square inch or 34.5 bar), where the magnetic coreloss does not increase, permeability drops by five percent.

However, the difference in the coefficient of thermal expansion (andcontraction) induced stress over a wide range of operating temperaturesis far greater (e.g., greater than 2000 pounds per square inch or 138bar) leading to a drop of real permeability 110 in the range of 16percent, a rise in imaginary permeability 120 in the range of 32 percentand a substantial decrease in the overall permeability for the magneticdevice. While the illustrated embodiment exhibits the stress dependenceof complex permeability for a toroidal ferrite core, the same oranalogous principles apply to any magnetic device under compressivestresses. Simply stated, the magnetostrictive effects on magneticmaterials under stress induce unacceptable reductions of the magneticproperties in the magnetic device.

Turning now to FIG. 2, illustrated is a dynamic hysteresis loop 200 ofthe magnetic device of FIG. 1 under substantially stress freeconditions. The hysteresis loop 200 demonstrates a steady state relationbetween a magnetic induction in the magnetic material of the magneticdevice and the steady state alternating magnetic intensity that producesit. For each value of magnetizing force (in oersteds) applied to themagnetic device, two values of magnetic flux density (in gauss) areillustrated in the hysteresis loop 200. The illustrated embodimentdemonstrates a 500 kilohertz hysteresis loop 200 with a three oerstedsdrive into saturation. Under stress free conditions, the amplitudepermeability is 1424 and the coercivity is 0.64 oersteds. The domains ofthe magnetic field, therefore, have been aligned resulting in a fluxdensity with an upper limit of about 4430 gauss.

Turning now to FIG. 3, illustrated is a dynamic hysteresis loop 300 ofthe magnetic device of FIG. 1 molded in an encapsulant such as athermosetting epoxy molding compound and placed under compressivestress. The magnetic device is illustrated as being molded in athermosetting epoxy molding compound at 170 degrees Celsius andsubsequently cooled to room temperature. The thermally induced stress isestablished and, as displayed in the illustrated embodiment, thehysteresis loop 300 is substantially deformed. Under these conditions,the amplitude permeability (from the average slope) is about 1100 andthe coercivity has increased three fold to about 1.85 oersteds,indicating large strain energy that induces significant domain wallpinning. Under the same driving field of three oersteds, alignment ofdomains is very difficult since the flux density is only about 3380gauss. The excessive stress, therefore, limits alignment of the domainsto 76 percent and increases the magnetic core dissipation to virtually45 percent higher than the original unstressed state.

Turning now to FIG. 4, illustrated is a dynamic hysteresis loop 400 ofthe magnetic device of FIG. 1 compensating for the losses associatedwith the conditions demonstrated with respect to FIG. 3. In theillustrated embodiment, the field drive of the magnetic device isdoubled to align the remaining pinned domains left unaligned from theconditions described above. Alignment is limited to 92 percent,resulting in an increased magnetic core dissipation of about 108percent. This outcome demonstrates the magnitude of external energyneeded to overcome the strain energy barrier. Clearly, it is notpractical to design a magnetic device to compensate for theseunacceptable losses, and the energy necessary to overcome these lossesis intolerable.

Therefore, before it becomes practical to encapsulate power modules inencapsulants such as a thermosetting epoxy molding compounds or thelike, it is necessary to determine methods of protecting the magneticcores such as a ferrite core of magnetic devices. In connectiontherewith, several criteria should be addressed. First, the magneticproperties of the magnetic device should be preserved through the postmolded stress relief period as the magnetic device cools from themolding temperature to room temperature. Second, the thermalcharacteristics of the magnetic device to operate efficiently over aspecified range should be maintained. Finally, manufacturing costsshould be maintained at a competitive level.

Turning now to FIG. 5, illustrated is a cross sectional view of anembodiment of a partially completed encapsulatable package for amagnetic device (also referred to as a “packagable magnetic device”)constructed according to the principles of the present invention. Thepackagable magnetic device may be employed in a power module or moduleemploying a magnetic device to advantage. The packagable magnetic deviceincludes a magnetic core (e.g., a ferrite core) 510 with surroundingelectrically conductive windings 520 (i.e., at least one conductivewinding) thereabout. The magnetic core 510 is located (e.g., mounted) ona substrate 540 such as a printed wiring board, and may be separatedfrom the substrate by stand offs 550.

To protect the magnetic core 510 from an encapsulant such as anoverlying molding compound like an epoxy molding compound applicableduring a manufacturing process and with a potentially differentcoefficient of thermal expansion from the magnetic material thereof, ashielding structure such as a protective cap 530 is placed about themagnetic core 510 and conductive windings 520 that creates anincomplete, imperfect or partial seal via an opening 560 with theunderlying substrate 540. The protective cap 530 creates a chamber 535about the magnetic core 510 and conductive windings 520 and may besubstantially free of any material therein. The protective cap 530 maybe formed from a material such as a ceramic material, aluminum, copper,molded plastic material, or other suitable sufficiently rigid material.

While the shielding structure is embodied in a protective cap 530 in theillustrated embodiment, any structure capable of protecting the magneticcore 510 from the encapsulant while creating an incomplete, imperfect orpartial seal thereabout is well within the broad scope of the presentinvention. The packagable magnetic device further includes electricalleads 570 protruding from, for instance, opposing sidewalls of thesubstrate 540 to allow the packagable magnetic device to be mounted toanother substrate or circuit board. The electrical leads 570 are thusavailable for conventional soldering processes. The electrical leads 570may be configured for a through hole arrangement (as illustrated in FIG.5) or may be configured as surface mount pads or as any other attachmentarrangement.

Molded plastic packages for conventional integrated circuits areobviously not a new notion, but applying molded plastic packages tomagnetic devices or power modules, in general, for the aforementionedreasons offers unique challenges due to stress induced performancedegradations due to overmolding, potting, or similar packagingprocessing. Although the encapsulating processes described hereinreference heat cured epoxy compounds, other thermal setting compounds orother molding, casting, or potting compounds that exhibit a coefficientof thermal expansion mismatch or other stress inducing effect on amagnetic core 510, such as may result from a curing operation or fromaging, are included herein without limitation such as ultraviolet,infrared, oven cured, or room temperature cured materials, includingmulti-part materials, rubber-based, silicone-based, or further pottingmaterials of other compositions.

During application of the overlying molding compound, a limited amountof compound penetrates through the opening 560 and contacts only a smallportion of the magnetic core 510. Thus, the protective cap 530 limitsthe amount of the molding compound that enters the chamber 535 to limitthe amount of molding compound that surrounds the magnetic core 510.Stated another way, the chamber 535 is partially filled with the moldingcompound and the molding compound contacts (or is about) a portion ofthe magnetic core 510. The limited penetration provides protection forthe magnetic core 510. The conductive windings 520 and any furtherobstructions to the molding compound contacting the magnetic core 510such as insulating tape around the conductive windings 520 or a rigid orcompliant barrier provide further protection for the magnetic core 510.Thus, the packagable magnetic device provides a magnetic core 510 withreduced exposure to the overlying molding compound, avoiding asubstantial portion of the stress induced performance degradation asherein described.

More specifically, the effects of magnetostriction (and a related effectof strain pinning of the domain walls of the magnetic cores) are reducedas a result of molding pressures and post-molding stresses on themagnetic core 510. Again, magnetostriction in a magnetic core 510 causesdegradation of magnetic properties when placed under tensile orcompressive stress. The magnetostriction and strain pinning causes thepermeability of the magnetic core 510 to decrease and coercivity thereofto increase. By decreasing the amount of encapsulant about the magneticcore 510, not only are the molding pressures reduced but thepost-molding stresses resulting from, for instance, when the moldingcompound cures are significantly reduced. In accordance therewith, theopening 560 allows the molding compound (or at least a portion thereof)to exit the chamber 535, if necessary, as the molding compound cures.

Turning now to FIG. 6, illustrated is a cross sectional view of anembodiment of an encapsulated package for a magnetic device (alsoreferred to as a “packaged magnetic device”) following application of anencapsulant such as a molding compound constructed according to theprinciples of the present invention. The packaged magnetic deviceincludes a magnetic core (e.g., a ferrite core) 610 with surroundingelectrically conductive windings 620 (i.e., at least one conductivewinding) thereabout. The magnetic core 610 is mounted on a substrate 640and may be separated from the substrate by stand offs 650.

To protect the magnetic core 610 from an overlying molding compound 680such as an epoxy molding compound applicable during a manufacturingprocess and with a potentially different coefficient of thermalexpansion from the magnetic material thereof, a shielding structure suchas protective cap 630 is placed about the magnetic core 610 andconductive windings 620 that create an incomplete, imperfect or partialseal via an opening 660 with the underlying substrate 640. Theprotective cap 630 creates a chamber 635 about the magnetic core 610 andconductive windings 620. The packaged magnetic device further includeselectrical leads 670 protruding from, for instance, opposing sidewallsof the substrate 640 to allow the packaged magnetic device to be mountedto another substrate or circuit board.

The molding compound 680 is applied about the protective cap 630 andforms a portion of an external surface of the packaged magnetic device.The molding compound 680 provides protection from environmental elementsincluding later manufacturing steps such as washing as well as providingan improved heat conducting medium for internal components of thepackaged magnetic device. The molding compound 680 penetrates theopening 660 at a junction between the protective cap 630 and thesubstrate 640. The protective cap 630 limits the amount of the moldingcompound 680 that enters the chamber 635 to limit the amount of moldingcompound 680 that contacts (or surrounds) the magnetic core 610. Thus, aportion of the molding compound 680 contacts (or is about) the magneticcore 610, thereby providing only limited mechanical stress thereupon.

An embodiment of manufacturing (constructing or forming) the packagedmagnetic device will hereinafter be described. First, a substrate with aplurality of electrical leads is provided as a foundation for thepackaged magnetic device. For an example of a substrate having aplurality of leads protruding therefrom, see U.S. Pat. No. 5,345,670entitled “Method of Making a Surface-Mount Power Magnetic Device,” toPitzele, et al., issued Sep. 13, 1994, which is incorporated herein byreference. A plurality of stand offs are then located on the substratefollowed by placing a magnetic core with at least one conductive windingthereabout on the plurality of stand offs. The conductive winding(s) maybe wound about the magnetic core or placed about the magnetic coreemploying planar magnetics such as disclosed in Pitzele, et al.

Then, a protective cap is placed over the magnetic core to create achamber thereabout and a partial seal thereabout (and with thesubstrate). The substrate with the magnetic core and protective cap areplaced in a mold cavity. An encapsulant is then incorporated (e.g.,deposited) by, for instance, flowing an epoxy molding compound that hasbeen heated within a range of about 165 to 190 degrees Celsius, or othersuitable encapsulant over and about the protective cap, therebyproviding substantially complete encapsulation. As mentioned above, aportion of the molding compound penetrates the partial seal via anopening at the junction of the protective cap and the substrate. Aportion of the molding compound contacts the magnetic core, therebyproviding only limited mechanical stress thereupon. Thus, only a portionof the magnetic core is in contact with (or surrounded by) the moldingcompound.

The magnetic core experiences an increase in stress as the moldingcompound cools to room temperature thereby shrinking around the magneticcore (i.e., when the molding compound cures). The shrinkage that occursduring the cooling of the molding compound around the magnetic corecreates the principal stress thereto. The stress inducesmagnetostrictive effects that may degrade a performance of the magneticcore. Although a velocity pressure head of the molding compound flowfront and a static packing pressure may vary from 40 to 50 pounds persquare inch and 350 to 500 pounds per square inch, respectively, duringthe molding process of the packaged magnetic device as described herein,the velocity pressure head does not create a large enough stress on themagnetic core to induce substantial magnetostrictive effects. A majorportion of the stress on the magnetic core occurs during a coolingperiod after molding. The stress is produced by the differences in thecoefficient of thermal expansion (or other aging- or curing-relatedeffects) between the epoxy or other molding compound and in the magneticmaterial of the magnetic core. The amount of stress on the magnetic coremay be approximately 13,000 pounds per square inch on some portions ofthe magnetic core and three times that value in corners of the magneticcore. The large increase in stress in corners of the magnetic core isgenerated at sharp radii of the corners. Also, the opening in theprotective cap allows the molding compound (or at least a portionthereof) to exit the chamber, if necessary, as the molding compoundcures.

Turning now to FIG. 7, illustrated is a cross sectional view of anotherembodiment of an encapsulated package for a magnetic device (alsoreferred to as a “packaged magnetic device”) following application of anencapsulant such as a molding compound constructed according to theprinciples of the present invention. The packaged magnetic deviceincludes a magnetic core (e.g., a ferrite core) 710 with surroundingelectrically conductive windings 720 (i.e., at least one conductivewinding) thereabout. The magnetic core 710 is mounted on a substrate 740and may be separated from the substrate by stand offs 750.

To protect the magnetic core 710 from an overlying molding compound 780such as an epoxy molding compound applicable during a manufacturingprocess and with a potentially different coefficient of thermalexpansion from the magnetic material thereof, a shielding structure suchas a protective cap 730 including a baffle 790 (e.g., plate(s), wall(s)or screen(s)) is placed about the magnetic core 710 and conductivewindings 720 that creates an incomplete, imperfect or partial seal viaan opening 760 with the underlying substrate 740. The protective cap 730creates a chamber 735 about the magnetic core 710 and conductivewindings 720. The packaged magnetic device further includes electricalleads 770 protruding from, for instance, opposing sidewalls of thesubstrate 740 to allow the packaged magnetic device to be mounted toanother substrate or circuit board.

The baffle 790 (which is coupled to a sidewall of the protective cap730) directs the flow of the molding compound 780 to a region within thechamber 735 away from the magnetic core 710, at least to a region wherethe induced stress on the magnetic core 710 will have a reduced effecton the magnetic properties thereof. The baffle 790 may be formedintegrally with the protective cap 730, of the same or differentmaterials, or may be left unattached, or may be coupled to the substrate740 or elsewhere. The intent is to create a region separated from themagnetic core 710 to contain the molding compound 780 that penetratesthe opening 760 that is formed between the protective cap 730 and thesubstrate 740 or other portion of the packaged magnetic device.

Turning now to FIG. 8, illustrated is a cross sectional view of anembodiment of a power module following application of an encapsulantconstructed according to the principles of the present invention. Thepower module includes power conversion circuitry including a magneticdevice and other power conversion circuitry 805 such as a power train(with at least one switch), a driver and a controller. An example of thepower conversion circuitry is illustrated and described with respect toFIG. 9.

The magnetic device is embodied in a packaged magnetic device includinga magnetic core 810 with surrounding electrically conductive windings820 thereabout. The magnetic core 810 is mounted on a substrate 840 andmay be separated from the substrate by stand offs 850. To protect themagnetic device and other power conversion circuitry 805 fromenvironmental conditions and the like, an encapsulant 880 is depositedthereabout. To protect the magnetic device from the encapsulant 880,however, a shielding structure 830 including a baffle 890 is placedabout the magnetic core 810 and conductive windings 820 that creates anincomplete, imperfect or partial seal via an opening 860 with theunderlying substrate 840. The shielding structure 830 creates a chamber835 about the magnetic core 810 and conductive windings 820. The baffle890 directs the flow of the encapsulant 880 to a region within thechamber 835 away from the magnetic core 810. The power module furtherincludes electrical leads 870 protruding from, for instance, opposingsidewalls of the substrate 840 to allow the power module to be mountedto another substrate or circuit board.

When manufacturing the power module, in addition to the steps describedabove, the other power conversion circuitry such as the power train islocated (e.g., mounted) on the substrate in addition to the magneticdevice (which may be pre-packaged). An encapsulant is then applied overthe power conversion circuitry to form a protective, heat dissipatingpackage for the power module.

Turning now to FIG. 9, illustrated is a diagram of an embodiment of apower converter including power conversion circuitry constructedaccording to the principles of the present invention. The powerconverter includes a power train 910, a controller 920 and a driver 930,and provides power to a system such as a microprocessor. While in theillustrated embodiment, the power train 910 employs a buck convertertopology, those skilled in the art should understand that otherconverter topologies such as a forward converter topology are wellwithin the broad scope of the present invention.

The power train 910 receives an input voltage V_(in) from a source ofelectrical power (represented by a battery) at an input thereof andprovides a regulated output voltage V_(out) to power, for instance, amicroprocessor at an output thereof. In keeping with the principles of abuck converter topology, the output voltage V_(out) is generally lessthan the input voltage V_(in) such that a switching operation of thepower converter can regulate the output voltage V_(out). A switch (e.g.,a main switch Q_(mn)) is enabled to conduct for a primary interval(generally co-existent with a primary duty cycle “D” of the main switchQ_(mn)) and couples the input voltage V_(in) to an output filterinductor L_(out). During the primary interval, an inductor currentI_(Lout) flowing through the output filter inductor L_(out) increases asa current flows from the input to the output of the power train 910. AnAC component of the inductor current I_(Lout) is filtered by the outputcapacitor C_(out).

During a complementary interval (generally co-existent with acomplementary duty cycle “1-D” of the main switch Q_(mn)), the mainswitch Q_(mn) is transitioned to a non-conducting state and anotherswitch (e.g., an auxiliary switch Q_(aux)) is enabled to conduct. Theauxiliary switch Q_(aux) provides a path to maintain a continuity of theinductor current I_(Lout) flowing through the output filter inductorL_(out). During the complementary interval, the inductor currentI_(Lout) through the output filter inductor L_(out) decreases. Ingeneral, the duty cycle of the main and auxiliary switches Q_(mn),Q_(aux) may be adjusted to maintain a regulation of the output voltageV_(out) of the power converter. Those skilled in the art shouldunderstand, however, that the conduction periods for the main andauxiliary switches Q_(mn), Q_(aux) may be separated by a small timeinterval to avoid cross conduction therebetween and beneficially toreduce the switching losses associated with the power converter.

The controller 920 receives a desired characteristic such as a desiredsystem voltage V_(system) from an internal or external source associatedwith the microprocessor, and the output voltage V_(out) of the powerconverter. The controller 920 is also coupled to the input voltageV_(in) of the power converter and a return lead of the source ofelectrical power (again, represented by a battery) to provide a groundconnection therefor. While only a single ground connection isillustrated in the present embodiment, those skilled in the art shouldunderstand that multiple ground connections may be employed for usewithin the controller 120. A decoupling capacitor C_(dec) is coupled tothe path from the input voltage V_(in) to the controller 120. Thedecoupling capacitor C_(dec) is configured to absorb high frequencynoise signals associated with the source of electrical power to protectthe controller 920.

In accordance with the aforementioned characteristics, the controller920 provides a signal (e.g., a pulse width modulated signal S_(PWM)) tocontrol a duty cycle and a frequency of the main and auxiliary switchesQ_(mn), Q_(aux) of the power train 910 to regulate the output voltageV_(out) thereof. The controller 920 may also provide a complement of thesignal (e.g., a complementary pulse width modulated signal S_(1-PWM)) inaccordance with the aforementioned characteristics. Any controlleradapted to control at least one switch of the power converter is wellwithin the broad scope of the present invention. As an example, acontroller employing digital circuitry is disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/767,937, entitled “Controller for a PowerConverter and a Method of Controlling a Switch Thereof,” to Dwarakanath,et al. and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/766,983, entitled“Controller for a Power Converter and Method of Controlling a SwitchThereof,” to Dwarakanath, et al., which are incorporated herein byreference.

The power converter also includes the driver 930 configured to providedrive signals S_(DRV1), S_(DRV2) to the main and auxiliary switchesQ_(mn), Q_(aux), respectively, based on the signals S_(PWM), S_(1-PWM)provided by the controller 920. There are a number of viablealternatives to implement a driver 930 that include techniques toprovide sufficient signal delays to prevent crosscurrents whencontrolling multiple switches in the power converter. The driver 930typically includes switching circuitry incorporating a plurality ofdriver switches that cooperate to provide the drive signals S_(DRV1),S_(DRV2) to the main and auxiliary switches Q_(mn), Q_(aux). Of course,any driver 930 capable of providing the drive signals S_(DRV1), S_(DRV2)to control a switch is well within the broad scope of the presentinvention. As an example, a driver is disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/767,540, entitled “Driver for a Power Converterand Method of Driving a Switch Thereof,” to Dwarakanath, et al., whichis incorporated herein by reference. Also, an embodiment of asemiconductor device that may embody portions of the power conversioncircuitry is disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/767,684,entitled “Laterally Diffused Metal Oxide Semiconductor Device and Methodof Forming the Same,” to Lotfi, et al., which is incorporated herein byreference, and an embodiment of an integrated circuit embodying powerconversion circuitry, or portions thereof, is disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/924,003, entitled “Integrated Circuit Employablewith a Power Converter,” to Lotfi, et al., which is incorporated byreference.

Thus, an encapsulatable package for a magnetic device, a power moduleand a method of manufacture thereof with readily attainable andquantifiable advantages has been introduced. Those skilled in the artshould understand that the previously described embodiments of themagnetic device and power module are submitted for illustrative purposesonly. In addition, other embodiments capable of producing anencapsulatable package for a magnetic device and a power module whileaddressing the effects of magnetostriction and the like are well withinthe broad scope of the present invention. While the magnetic device hasbeen described in the environment of a power converter, the magneticdevice may also be incorporated into other systems or assemblies such asa communication or computing devices or other power processing devices.

As mentioned above, the present invention provides an encapsulatablepackage for a magnetic device with a magnetic core whose magneticproperties can be compromised by external mechanical stress. Themagnetic core is surrounded by at least one conductive winding and isprotected from stress induced by an encapsulant by a shielding structurethat creates a chamber about at least a portion of the magnetic core.The shielding structure may be open at one end (such as at a junctionbetween the magnetic core and an underlying substrate) such that theshielding structure can be readily positioned over the magnetic core.The shielding structure makes an incomplete, imperfect or partial sealabout the magnetic core and preferably with an underlying surfaceagainst intrusion of an encapsulant. During encapsulation, a limitedquantity of the encapsulant penetrates the seal, but does not makecontact with sufficient surface area of the magnetic core tosubstantially compromise the magnetic performance thereof. In a furtherembodiment, the shielding structure includes a baffle to direct thepenetrating encapsulant away from the magnetic core.

For a better understanding of power converters, see “Modern DC-to-DCSwitchmode Power Converter Circuits,” by Rudolph P. Severns and GordonBloom, Van Nostrand Reinhold Company, New York, N.Y. (1985) and“Principles of Power Electronics,” by J. G. Kassakian, M. F. Schlechtand G. C. Verghese, Addison-Wesley (1991). For a better understanding ofmagnetic devices, see “Soft Ferrites: Properties and Applications,” byE. C. Snelling, published by Butterworth-Heinemann, Second Edition,1989. The aforementioned references are incorporated herein by referencein their entirety.

Also, although the present invention and its advantages have beendescribed in detail, it should be understood that various changes,substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing fromthe spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.For example, many of the processes discussed above can be implemented indifferent methodologies and replaced by other processes, or acombination thereof.

Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to belimited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine,manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps describedin the specification. As one of ordinary skill in the art will readilyappreciate from the disclosure of the present invention, processes,machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps,presently existing or later to be developed, that perform substantiallythe same function or achieve substantially the same result as thecorresponding embodiments described herein may be utilized according tothe present invention. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended toinclude within their scope such processes, machines, manufacture,compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps.

1. A power module located on a substrate, comprising: power conversioncircuitry, including: a magnetic device having a magnetic core with ashielding structure located about said magnetic core configured tocreate a chamber thereabout, and at least one switch; and an encapsulantabout said power conversion circuitry, said shielding structureconfigured to limit said encapsulant entering said chamber therebyallowing said encapsulant to surround a portion of said magnetic corewithin said chamber.
 2. The power module as recited in claim 1 whereinsaid shielding structure is configured to allow at least a portion ofsaid encapsulant to exit said chamber as said encapsulant cures.
 3. Thepower module as recited in claim 1 wherein said shielding structure isconfigured to limit an exposure of said magnetic core to saidencapsulant.
 4. The power module as recited in claim 1 wherein saidshielding structure creates a partial seal about said magnetic core. 5.The power module as recited in claim 1 wherein said shielding structurecreates an opening between a junction of said shielding structure andsaid substrate.
 6. The power module as recited in claim 1 wherein saidshielding structure is a protective cap.
 7. The power module as recitedin claim 1 wherein said shielding structure is formed from a materialselected from the group consisting of: a ceramic material, aluminum,copper, and molded plastic.
 8. The power module as recited in claim 1further comprising a stand off between said magnetic core and saidsubstrate.
 9. The power module as recited in claim 1 further comprisingelectrical leads protruding from sidewalls of said substrate.
 10. Thepower module as recited in claim 1 further comprising at least oneconductive winding about said magnetic core.
 11. A power module locatedon a substrate, comprising: power conversion circuitry, including: amagnetic device having a magnetic core with a shielding structure havinga baffle located about said magnetic core configured to create a chamberthereabout, and at least one switch; and an encapsulant about said powerconversion circuitry, said shielding structure configured to limit saidencapsulant entering said chamber and said baffle configured to directsaid encapsulant away from said magnetic core thereby allowing saidencapsulant to surround a portion of said magnetic core within saidchamber.
 12. The power module as recited in claim 11 wherein saidshielding structure is configured to allow at least a portion of saidencapsulant to exit said chamber as said encapsulant cures.
 13. Thepower module as recited in claim 11 wherein said baffle is coupled to asidewall of said shielding structure.
 14. The power module as recited inclaim 11 wherein said shielding structure creates a partial seal aboutsaid magnetic core.
 15. The power module as recited in claim 11 whereinsaid shielding structure creates an opening between a junction of saidshielding structure and said substrate.
 16. The power module as recitedin claim 11 wherein said shielding structure is a protective cap. 17.The power module as recited in claim 11 wherein said shielding structureis formed from a material selected from the group consisting of: aceramic material, aluminum, copper, and molded plastic.
 18. The powermodule as recited in claim 11 further comprising a stand off betweensaid magnetic core and said substrate.
 19. The power module as recitedin claim 11 further comprising electrical leads protruding fromsidewalls of said substrate.
 20. The power module as recited in claim 11further comprising at least one conductive winding about said magneticcore.